Food dispensing mouthpiece

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/096,683, filed on Sep. 12, 2008, the entire contents of which are incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This description relates to a feeding system and more specifically a mouthpiece for feeding infants or invalids.

BACKGROUND

Generally, infants or invalids are spoon feed. Often this is a two handed process in which one hand is used to hold a container of food while the other hand holds a spoon or other eating utensil. This is frequently inconvenient. For example, in the case of an infant, a third hand may be needed to hold the child. However, often performing these three actions with only two hands frequently leads to difficulty.

SUMMARY

According to one general aspect, an apparatus comprising a fitment, a neck portion, and a mouthpiece. In various embodiments, the fitment may be configured to attach the apparatus substantially permanently with a flexible pouch containing edible material. In one embodiment, the fitment may include a first hole configured to provide an exit point for the edible material from the flexible pouch. In various embodiments, the neck portion may be configured to connect the fitment and a mouthpiece portion. In one embodiment, the neck portion may include a channel configured to transmit the edible material from the hole of the fitment to the mouthpiece. In various embodiments, the mouthpiece may be configured to facilitate eating of the edible material. In one embodiment, the mouthpiece may include a concave portion configured to hold the edible material, and a second hole configured to transmit the edible material from the neck portion to the concave portion.

According to another general aspect, an apparatus comprising a fitment and a mouthpiece. In various embodiments, the fitment may be configured to attach the apparatus substantially permanently with a container configured to hold semi-liquid material. In one embodiment, the fitment may include a spout configured to discharge the semi-liquid material from the container. In various embodiments, the mouthpiece may include a tubular hole and a holding portion. In some embodiments, the tubular hole may be positioned longitudinally and configured to route the semi-liquid material from the spout to a holding portion. In some embodiments, the holding portion may be configured to hold the semi-liquid material that has been discharged from the container via the tubular hole.

According to another general aspect, a system comprising a container and a food dispensing mouthpiece. In one embodiment, the container may be configured to store fluid edible material. In various embodiments, the food dispensing mouthpiece may include a fitment and a mouthpiece portion. In some embodiments, the fitment may be configured to attach the food dispensing mouthpiece substantially permanently with the container. In various embodiments, the mouthpiece portion may include a tubular hole and a holding portion. In some embodiments, the tubular hole may be positioned longitudinally and configured to route the semi-liquid material from the container to a holding portion. In various embodiments, the holding portion may be configured to hold the semi-liquid material that has been discharged from the container.

The details of one or more implementations are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims.

A system and/or apparatus for a feeding utensil, substantially as shown in and/or described in connection with at least one of the figures, as set forth more completely in the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is a diagram of an example embodiment of a system in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a series of diagrams of example embodiments of systems in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref><i>a </i>is an isometric diagram of an example embodiment of an apparatus in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref><i>b </i>is a side-facing diagram of an example embodiment of an apparatus in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref><i>c </i>is a cross-sectional isometric diagram of an example embodiment of an apparatus in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref><i>d </i>is a cross-sectional side-facing diagram of an example embodiment of an apparatus in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> includes front and side facing diagrams of an example embodiment of an apparatus in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> is a series of front-facing diagrams of example embodiments of apparatuses in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> is a series of cut-away diagrams of an example embodiment of an apparatus in accordance with the disclosed subject matter in both an open and closed position.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref><i>a </i>is a top-down diagram of an example embodiment of an apparatus in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref><i>b </i>is an isometric diagram of an example embodiment of an apparatus in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> is a series of diagrams of an example embodiment of a system illustrating a screw-off mouthpiece in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> is a series of diagrams of an example embodiment of an apparatus illustrating a cap and safety-sealing plug in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> is a side-facing diagram of an example embodiment of an apparatus in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 11-24</figref> show additional features of the system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to the Figures in which like numerals indicate like elements, <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is a diagram of an example embodiment of a system <b>100</b> in accordance with the disclosed subject matter. In one embodiment, the system <b>100</b> may include a container <b>104</b>, and a mouthpiece fitment or food dispensing mouthpiece <b>102</b>.

In some embodiments, the container <b>104</b> may include a flexible pouch. In various embodiments, the container or flexible pouch <b>104</b> may include two or more pieces of metal foil or thin plastic sheets sandwiched together along the edges of the container <b>104</b>. In one embodiment, the edges may be sealed so as to contain a fluid or semi-liquid edible material within the container <b>104</b>. In this context, the term “semi-liquid” may include liquids and materials capable of flowing like a fluid that are neither fully solid nor fully liquid (e.g., ground or puréed vegetables or fruits, etc.). In various embodiments, the edible material may include, for example, infant food, medicine, sports related food, soft ice cream, etc.; although, it is understood that the above are merely a few illustrative examples to which the disclosed subject matter is not limited.

In various embodiments, the container <b>104</b> may be manufactured by gluing or welding together the edges of the two or more thin sheets on at least two sides. In one embodiment, a third or top side may be sealed by gluing or welding the two thin sheets to a portion of the food dispensing mouthpiece <b>102</b>, such that a portion of the food dispensing mouthpiece <b>102</b> is substantially sandwiched in between the two thin sheets. In such an embodiment, the partially manufactured container <b>104</b> may be open, at least partially, on a fourth side and sealed on the remaining three sides. In various embodiments, the edible material may be poured or injected into the container <b>104</b> via the fourth open side. In some embodiments, this fourth side may then be sealed.

In various embodiments, the container <b>104</b> may be substantially flexible to facilitate squeezing the semi-liquid edible material out of an opening in the container <b>104</b>. In such an embodiment, the opening may be provided by the food dispensing mouthpiece <b>102</b>.

In one embodiment, the food dispensing mouthpiece <b>102</b> may be configured to facilitate the eating of the fluid or semi-liquid edible material stored within the container <b>104</b>. In various embodiments, the food dispensing mouthpiece <b>102</b> may include a concave holding portion <b>106</b> and a tubular hole or channel <b>108</b>. In some embodiments, the concave holding portion <b>106</b> may be configured to hold the portion of fluid or semi-liquid edible material discharged from the container <b>104</b>. In one embodiment, the tubular hole or channel <b>108</b> may be configured to route or transmit the fluid or semi-liquid edible material from the container <b>104</b> to the concave holding portion <b>106</b>. In various embodiments, a user or person may squeeze the flexible container <b>104</b>, creating pressure that may force the edible material through the tubular hole or channel <b>108</b> and into the concave holding portion <b>106</b>.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> is a series of diagrams of example embodiments of systems <b>202</b>, <b>204</b>, <b>206</b>, and <b>208</b> in accordance with the disclosed subject matter. <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2</figref> illustrates several possible styles or embodiments of the disclosed subject matter; although, it is understood that the above are merely a few illustrative examples to which the disclosed subject matter is not limited.

System <b>202</b> illustrates an embodiment in which the food dispensing mouthpiece <b>102</b> is substantially shovel shaped and an attachment portion of the food dispensing mouthpiece <b>102</b> is partially exposed. In various embodiments, the food dispensing mouthpiece <b>102</b> may include a flat, substantially square end configured to facilitate scooping any dropped edible material back into the concave holding portion, as described above. System <b>204</b> illustrates an embodiment in which the food dispensing mouthpiece <b>102</b> is substantially shovel shaped and an attachable portion of the food dispensing mouthpiece <b>102</b> is substantially flush with the container <b>104</b>.

System <b>206</b> illustrates that, in one embodiment, the food dispensing mouthpiece <b>102</b> is substantially spoon shaped. In such an embodiment, the end of the food dispensing mouthpiece <b>102</b> may be substantially rounded. In various embodiments, the substantially rounded end of the food dispensing mouthpiece <b>102</b> may be configured to facilitate entry into the mouth.

System <b>208</b> illustrates an embodiment in which the food dispensing mouthpiece <b>102</b> may include a movable mouthpiece <b>210</b> and a fixed fitment <b>212</b>. In various embodiments, the movable mouthpiece <b>210</b> may be removable, as described below. In other embodiments, the moveable mouthpiece <b>210</b> may be moveable between an open position, in which the edible material may flow to the concave holding portion, and a closed position, in which the edible material is substantially prevented from being discharged from the container <b>104</b>.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> includes a series of diagrams of an example embodiment of an apparatus <b>300</b> in accordance with the disclosed subject matter. <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref><i>a </i>is an isometric diagram of an example embodiment of an apparatus <b>300</b> in accordance with the disclosed subject matter. <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref><i>b </i>is a side-facing diagram of an example embodiment of the apparatus <b>300</b> in accordance with the disclosed subject matter. In one embodiment, the apparatus <b>300</b> may include a fitment <b>302</b>, a neck portion <b>304</b>, and a mouthpiece <b>306</b>.

In various embodiments, the fitment <b>302</b> may be configured to attach the apparatus substantially permanently with a flexible pouch containing fluid or semi-liquid edible material. In one embodiment, the fitment <b>302</b> may be ribbed or corrugated to facilitate attaching the fitment <b>302</b> with the container. In some embodiments, the fitment <b>302</b> may be attached by gluing, welding, bonding, etc. the fitment <b>302</b> between two thin sheets of metal or plastic that comprise the container.

In one embodiment, the fitment <b>302</b> may include a substantially elongated oval shape, as illustrated by <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref><i>a</i>. In such an embodiment, the elongated ends of the fitment <b>302</b> may be configured to provide a relatively large amount of surface area to attach the fitment <b>302</b> with the container. In other embodiments, the fitment <b>302</b> may include a substantially circular shape, as opposed to the elongated oval shape illustrated in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>. In such an embodiment, the lack of elongated ends may facilitate the flexibility of the container and/or reduce costs and materials, respective to the illustrated elongated embodiment. Although, it is understood that the above are merely a few illustrative examples to which the disclosed subject matter is not limited.

In one embodiment, the apparatus <b>300</b> may include a neck portion <b>304</b>. In various embodiments, the neck portion <b>304</b> may be configured to connect the fitment and a mouthpiece portion <b>306</b>. In one embodiment, the neck <b>304</b> may include a base end coupled with the fitment <b>302</b> and a mouthpiece end coupled with the mouthpiece <b>306</b>. In various embodiments, the base end may include a substantially rectangular latitudinal cross-section. In such an embodiment, the neck <b>304</b> may transition to a substantially round latitudinal cross-section at the mouthpiece end. In various embodiments, the round latitudinal cross-section may be configured to be pleasing to the mouth. In some embodiments, the neck portion <b>304</b> may be included as part of the mouthpiece <b>306</b>.

In one embodiment, the apparatus <b>300</b> may include a mouthpiece <b>306</b>. In various embodiments, the mouthpiece <b>306</b> may be configured to facilitate eating of the edible material, as described above. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece <b>306</b> may include the neck portion <b>304</b>. In various embodiments, the mouthpiece <b>306</b> may be moveable, as described below. In one embodiment, the mouthpiece <b>306</b> may be compressible or elongatable, as described below. In such an embodiment, the mouthpiece <b>306</b> may be configured to be compressed if the mouthpiece <b>306</b> is roughly inserted into a person's mouth or a substantially equivalent action is performed. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece <b>306</b> may be removable, as described below.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref><i>c </i>is a cross-sectional isometric diagram of an example embodiment of an apparatus <b>300</b> in accordance with the disclosed subject matter. <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref><i>d </i>is a cross-sectional side-facing diagram of an example embodiment of an apparatus <b>300</b> in accordance with the disclosed subject matter.

In one embodiment, the fitment <b>302</b> may include a hole or spout <b>314</b>. In various embodiments, the hole or spout <b>314</b> may be configured to discharge or provide an exit point for the edible semi-liquid material from the container. In various embodiments, the fitment <b>302</b> may extend towards or into the neck portion <b>304</b>. In such an embodiment, this extension may form a spout <b>314</b> and may, in one embodiment, provide an attachment point for the mouthpiece <b>306</b> and/or the neck portion <b>304</b>. In various embodiments, the mouthpiece <b>306</b> may move about this spout <b>314</b>, as described below.

In one embodiment, the neck <b>304</b> may include a channel <b>312</b>. In various embodiments, the channel <b>312</b> may be configured to transmit the semi-liquid edible material from the hole or spout <b>314</b> to the mouthpiece <b>306</b>. In various embodiments, the channel <b>312</b> may include a first diameter at the end coupled with the hole or spout <b>314</b>, and a second relatively smaller diameter as the end coupled with the mouthpiece <b>306</b>. In another embodiment, the channel <b>312</b> may include a substantially uniform diameter.

In one embodiment, the mouthpiece <b>306</b> may include a concave or holding portion <b>308</b> and a tubular hole or channel <b>310</b>. In various embodiments, the concave or holding portion <b>308</b> may be configured to hold the semi-liquid edible material that has been discharged (via the hole or spout <b>314</b>, the neck <b>304</b> channel <b>312</b>, and the tubular hole or channel <b>310</b>) from the container. In various embodiments, the tubular hole or channel <b>310</b> may be configured to transmit or route the semi-liquid edible material from the container to the concave or holding portion <b>308</b>. In some embodiments, the tubular hole or channel <b>310</b> may be positioned longitudinally within the mouthpiece <b>306</b>.

In another embodiment, the tubular hole or channel <b>310</b> may include an exit point within the concave or holding portion <b>308</b>. In various embodiments, the exit point of the tubular hole or channel <b>310</b> may be positioned substantially at the bottom of the concave or holding portion <b>308</b>. In yet another embodiment, the exit point of the tubular hole or channel <b>310</b> may be positioned substantially part way up the side of the concave or holding portion <b>308</b> nearest the neck <b>304</b> or fitment <b>302</b>. Although, it is understood that the above are merely a few illustrative examples to which the disclosed subject matter is not limited.

In various embodiments, the exit point of the tubular hole or channel <b>310</b> may include a flap or restraint <b>316</b> configured to reduce the unintentional discharge of the semi-liquid edible material from the tubular hole or channel <b>310</b>. In various embodiments, such a flap or restraint may substantially reduce spilling of the edible material. In some embodiments, the flap or restraint may be configured to allow the edible material or a substantial amount of the edible material into the concave or holding portion <b>308</b> only when a threshold amount of force is applied; although, it is understood that the above is merely one illustrative example to which the disclosed subject matter is not limited.

In various embodiments, the apparatus <b>300</b> may not include a neck <b>304</b> or, in another embodiment, may include a neck without a channel <b>312</b>. In such an embodiment, the hole or spout <b>314</b> of the fitment <b>302</b> may be coupled directly with the tubular hole or channel <b>310</b> of the mouthpiece <b>306</b>.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> includes front and side facing diagrams of an example embodiment of an apparatus <b>400</b> in accordance with the disclosed subject matter. In one embodiment, the apparatus <b>400</b> may include a neck and/or mouthpiece portion (as illustrated) and a fitment portion (not shown).

In various embodiments, the neck may include a width dimension <b>406</b>. In one illustrative embodiment, the neck's width dimension <b>406</b> may be, for example, one half of an inch (i.e., ½″). In various embodiments, the neck may include a height dimension <b>414</b>. In one illustrative embodiment, the neck's height dimension <b>414</b> may be, for example, one half of an inch (i.e., ½″). In one embodiment, the neck may include a base or base end <b>426</b>. In various embodiments, the neck may include a facing length dimension <b>408</b>, from the base <b>426</b> of the neck to the portion coupled with the mouthpiece and oriented such that the concave or holding portion <b>308</b> is facing a viewer. In one illustrative embodiment, the neck's facing length dimension <b>408</b> may be, for example, one half of an inch (i.e., ½″). In various embodiments, the neck may include a back length dimension <b>416</b>, from the base <b>426</b> of the neck to the portion coupled with the mouthpiece and oriented such that the concave or holding portion <b>308</b> is facing away from a viewer. In one illustrative embodiment, the neck's back length dimension <b>416</b> may be, for example, one half of an inch (i.e., ½″). Although, it is understood that the above are merely a few illustrative examples to which the disclosed subject matter is not limited.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> illustrates a substantially shovel shaped embodiment of the mouthpiece, as described above. In various embodiments, the mouthpiece may include a width dimension <b>402</b>. In one illustrative embodiment, the mouthpiece's width dimension <b>402</b> may be, for example, three quarters of an inch (i.e., ¾″). In various embodiments, the mouthpiece may include a length dimension <b>404</b>. In one illustrative embodiment, the mouthpiece's length dimension <b>404</b> may be, for example, one inch (i.e., 1″). In various embodiments, the mouthpiece may include a depth or height dimension <b>410</b>. In one illustrative embodiment, the mouthpiece's depth or height dimension <b>410</b> may be, for example, one third of an inch (i.e., ⅓″). Although, it is understood that the above are merely a few illustrative examples to which the disclosed subject matter is not limited.

In one embodiment, the mouthpiece may include a back portion <b>420</b>, a front portion <b>422</b>, and a tip or mouth end <b>424</b>. In various embodiments, the back portion <b>420</b> and the front portion <b>422</b> may be configured to form the concave or holding portion <b>308</b>. In some embodiments, the back portion <b>420</b> may be or include a concave shape of a first depth or radius. The front portion <b>422</b> or at least the outer edges thereof may be or include a concave shape of a second depth or radius that is less than the depth of or greater than the radius of the back portion <b>420</b>. In such an embodiment, the back portion <b>420</b> and front portion <b>422</b> may meet at a tip or mouth end <b>424</b>, and end at the neck. In such an embodiment, the mouthpiece may form a substantially spoon or shovel shape. In one embodiment, the tip or mouth end <b>424</b> may include substantially squared corners and result in the mouthpiece including a substantially shovel shape (as illustrated). In another embodiment, the tip or mouth end <b>424</b> may be substantially rounded and result in the mouthpiece including a substantially spoon shape. In various embodiments, the mouthpiece and more specifically, in one embodiment, the tip or mouth end <b>424</b> may include substantially smooth or rounded edges.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> is a series of front-facing diagrams of example embodiments of apparatuses in accordance with the disclosed subject matter. In one embodiment, the apparatus <b>502</b> may include a fitment portion <b>302</b>, a neck portion <b>304</b>, and a mouthpiece portion <b>306</b>. In such an embodiment, the neck portion <b>304</b> may be substantially flush with the widest part of the mouthpiece <b>306</b>. In one embodiment, the apparatus <b>502</b> may include a single molded piece. In other embodiments, the apparatus <b>502</b> may include a number of pieces or parts, some of which may be moveable, as described above and below.

In one embodiment, the apparatus <b>504</b> may include a fitment portion <b>302</b>, a neck portion <b>304</b>, and a mouthpiece portion <b>306</b>. In such an embodiment, the neck portion <b>304</b> may be curved and configured to gently blend into the mouthpiece <b>306</b>. In such an embodiment, the apparatus <b>504</b> may include a shape more pleasing to the mouth with few or no abrupt edges. Once again, in various embodiments, the apparatus <b>504</b> may include a single molded or manufactured piece, while in other embodiments, the apparatus <b>504</b> may include multiple pieces.

In one embodiment, the apparatus <b>506</b> may include a mouthpiece <b>306</b> and a neck portion <b>304</b>. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece <b>306</b> may include the neck portion <b>304</b>. In various embodiments, the apparatus <b>506</b> may be removable from the fitment (not shown), as described below in reference to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref>. In some embodiments, the apparatus <b>506</b> may include a series of threads (e.g., internal threads) such that the apparatus <b>506</b> is configured to be screwed off of or on to the fitment. In another embodiment, the apparatus <b>506</b> may be secured via a vertical motion and held in place by compression. For example, the fitment may include a ring or bump that is configured to rest inside a receiving groove internally within the apparatus <b>506</b>. In such an embodiment, the apparatus <b>506</b> may be held in place by the compression of the neck <b>304</b> on the ring or bump. Although, it is understood that the above are merely a few illustrative examples to which the disclosed subject matter is not limited.

In one embodiment, the apparatus <b>508</b> may include a fitment portion <b>302</b>, a neck portion <b>304</b>, and a mouthpiece portion <b>306</b>. In such an embodiment, the neck portion <b>304</b> may include a diameter that is less than the diameter of the mouthpiece <b>306</b>. In such an embodiment, the apparatus <b>508</b> may include a single piece, as described above. In another embodiment, the apparatus <b>508</b> may include a plurality of pieces. In various embodiments, these pieces may be welded or fixedly coupled together. In another embodiment, these pieces may be movably or removably coupled together, as described below. In yet another embodiment, a combination of both fixedly coupling, movably coupling, and removably coupling may be used.

In various embodiments, the mouthpiece <b>306</b> and/or neck <b>304</b> may include a relatively soft or flexible material, as compared to the fitment <b>302</b>. In such an embodiment, the mouthpiece <b>306</b> and/or neck <b>304</b> may be configured to reduce the chance of injury to the individual eating the edible material. In some embodiments, the mouthpiece <b>306</b> and/or neck <b>304</b> may be merely covered with the relatively soft or flexible material and harder core material may be used to provide the general shape of the apparatuses.

It is understood that the above are merely a few illustrative examples to which the disclosed subject matter is not limited. These four example embodiments of <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> merely show a variety of design considerations that may be included in some embodiments of the disclosed subject matter.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> is a series of cut-away diagrams of an example embodiment of an apparatus <b>600</b> in accordance with the disclosed subject matter in both an open and closed position. <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref><i>a </i>illustrates an apparatus <b>600</b> in an open position. While, <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref><i>b </i>illustrates the apparatus <b>600</b> in a closed position.

In various embodiments, the apparatus <b>600</b> may include a moveable portion <b>620</b> and a non-movable portion <b>622</b>. In one embodiment, the non-movable portion <b>622</b> may be configured to be coupled with or included as part of the fitment. In one embodiment, the moveable portion <b>620</b> may be configured to move between a closed or first position (illustrated by <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref><i>a</i>) and an open or second position (illustrated by <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref><i>b</i>). In various embodiments, the moveable portion <b>620</b> may be included as part of the neck and/or mouthpiece.

In one embodiment, apparatus <b>600</b> may include a concave or holding portion <b>602</b>, a mouthpiece channel or tubular hole <b>604</b>, a neck portion channel <b>606</b>, and a fitment hole or spout <b>608</b>. In some embodiments, the neck portion channel <b>606</b> may be included or considered to be part of the tubular hole <b>604</b>. In various embodiments, the edible material may exit the container via the fitment hole or spout <b>608</b>.

As illustrated by <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref><i>a</i>, the apparatus <b>600</b> may include a plug <b>610</b>. In such an embodiment, the plug <b>610</b> may be configured to substantially block or close the neck portion channel <b>606</b>. In one embodiment, the plug <b>610</b> may be configured to, when in the closed or first position, prevent substantially any edible material from being transmitted between the fitment hole or spout <b>608</b> and the concave or holding portion <b>602</b>. The flow of the edible material, in one embodiment, is illustrated by arrow <b>614</b>. In such an embodiment, the edible material may flow through the fitment hole or spout <b>608</b> and, in one embodiment, partially through the neck channel portion <b>606</b> and be stopped by the plug <b>610</b>.

As illustrated by <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref><i>b</i>, in one embodiment, the plug <b>610</b> may be configured to, when in the open or second position, allow or not prevent edible material from being transmitted between the fitment hole or spout <b>608</b> and the concave or holding portion <b>602</b>. The flow of the edible material, in one embodiment, is illustrated by arrow <b>612</b>. In such an embodiment, the edible material may flow through the fitment hole or spout <b>608</b>, the neck channel <b>606</b>, and the mouthpiece channel or tubular hole <b>604</b> and into the concave or holding portion <b>602</b>.

It is understood that the plug <b>610</b> is merely one illustrative example of a technique to prevent the flow of the edible material to which the disclosed subject matter is not limited, and that other techniques are within the scope of the disclosed subject matter. For example, a horizontally sliding member may be used; although, it is understood that this again is merely one illustrative example to which the disclosed subject matter is not limited.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref><i>a </i>is a top-down diagram of an example embodiment of an apparatus <b>700</b> in accordance with the disclosed subject matter. In one embodiment, the apparatus <b>700</b> may include a twist-open mouthpiece <b>720</b>. In such an embodiment, the twist-open mouthpiece <b>720</b> may be configured to be placed into the open position, as described above, by rotating the mouthpiece a first direction <b>702</b>. In one embodiment, the twist-open mouthpiece <b>720</b> may configured to be placed into the closed position, as described above, by rotating the mouthpiece in a second direction <b>704</b> that is opposite the first direction <b>702</b>. In various embodiments, the mouthpiece <b>720</b> may ride along a screw-like thread that may be configured to raise or lower the mouthpiece <b>720</b> depending upon the direction of rotation. It is also understood that the orientation of the first direction <b>702</b> and second direction <b>704</b> are merely illustrative and not limiting on the disclosed subject matter.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 7</figref><i>b </i>is an isometric diagram of an example embodiment of an apparatus <b>701</b> in accordance with the disclosed subject matter. In one embodiment, the apparatus <b>701</b> may include a pop-open mouthpiece <b>721</b>. In such an embodiment, the pop-open mouthpiece <b>721</b> may be configured to be placed into the open position, as described above, by extending or elongating the mouthpiece longitudinally in a first direction <b>706</b>. In one embodiment, the pop-open mouthpiece <b>721</b> may configured to be placed into the closed position, as described above, by compressing the mouthpiece longitudinally in a second direction <b>708</b> that is opposite the first direction <b>706</b>. In various embodiments, the mouthpiece <b>721</b> may include sufficient frictional force to prevent the mouthpiece <b>721</b> from compressing or extending without the application of substantial external force. As described above, in one embodiment, the mouthpiece <b>721</b> may include a groove in which a ring of the fitment or neck may rest to prevent the unintentional movement of the mouthpiece <b>721</b>, as described above. Although, it is understood that the above are merely a few illustrative examples to which the disclosed subject matter is not limited. It is also understood that the orientation of the first direction <b>706</b> and second direction <b>708</b> are merely illustrative and not limiting on the disclosed subject matter.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 8</figref> is a series of diagrams of an example embodiment of a system <b>800</b> illustrating a screw-off mouthpiece in accordance with the disclosed subject matter. In one embodiment, the system <b>800</b> may include the container <b>104</b>, the fitment <b>302</b>, and the mouthpiece <b>306</b>.

In various embodiments, the container <b>104</b> may be substantially permanently coupled with fitment <b>302</b>. However, in one embodiment, the mouthpiece <b>306</b> may be removable. In one such embodiment, the mouthpiece <b>306</b> may include a screw-off mouthpiece. In one embodiment, the fitment <b>302</b> may include a thread <b>802</b> configured to raise or lower the mouthpiece <b>306</b> as the mouthpiece <b>306</b> is rotated on or off, respectively. In various embodiments, the thread <b>802</b> may be configured to removably couple the mouthpiece <b>302</b> with the fitment <b>302</b>. In one embodiment, the mouthpiece <b>306</b> may include a female or receiving portion having a notch or receiving thread internal to the mouthpiece and configured to ride along the thread <b>802</b>. In various embodiments, a neck portion may include either the threaded portion of the fitment <b>302</b>, or the receiving portion of the mouthpiece <b>306</b>.

In another embodiment, a system may include a pull-off mouthpiece, as described above in reference to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2 and 5</figref>. In such an embodiment, the mouthpiece may be configured to be removed by pulling the mouthpiece away from the fitment along the longitudinal or vertical axis of the system. Likewise, in such an embodiment, the mouthpiece may be configured to be coupled with the fitment by pushing or shoving the mouthpiece towards the fitment along the longitudinal or vertical axis of the system. Although, it is understood that the above are merely a few illustrative examples to which the disclosed subject matter is not limited.

In one embodiment, the system <b>800</b> may include a removable tamper-seal <b>804</b>. In various embodiments, the removable tamper-seal <b>804</b> may be configured to, when coupled with the system, block the channel of a neck portion or spout of the fitment <b>302</b>, such that substantially no edible material may flow to the mouthpiece <b>306</b>. In such an embodiment, the removable tamper-seal <b>804</b> may be configured to only be removable once the mouthpiece <b>306</b> has been uncoupled from the fitment <b>302</b>. For example, in one embodiment, the mouthpiece <b>306</b> may be coupled, during manufacture and at the time of sale, with the fitment <b>302</b> such that the tamper-seal <b>804</b> is not accessible or removable. In such an embodiment, a user may need to remove the mouthpiece <b>306</b> in order to remove the tamper-seal <b>804</b> and, therefore, render the system <b>800</b> useable, in that the edible material may be discharged. Such a user may wish to re-couple the mouthpiece <b>306</b> with the fitment <b>302</b> in order for the edible material to be discharged into the mouthpiece <b>306</b>.

In one embodiment, the tamper-seal <b>804</b> may include a tab or indicator <b>806</b> that may be visible, if the tamper-seal <b>804</b> has not been removed, without removing the mouthpiece <b>306</b>. In such an embodiment, a user may look for the tab or indicator <b>806</b> to determine if the tamper-seal <b>804</b> is in place before purchasing the system <b>800</b>. In some embodiments, the tamper-seal <b>804</b> may be configured to provide a user with an assurance that the edible material has not been tampered with or altered since the system <b>800</b> was manufactured.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 9</figref> is a series of diagrams of an example embodiment of an apparatus <b>900</b> illustrating a cap <b>902</b> and safety-sealing plug <b>906</b> in accordance with the disclosed subject matter. In one embodiment, the apparatus <b>900</b> may include a fitment <b>302</b>, a neck portion <b>304</b>, a mouthpiece <b>306</b>, and a removable cap <b>902</b>. In one embodiment, the mouthpiece <b>306</b> may include a channel or tubular hole <b>310</b> configured to transmit or route edible material from the container to the concave or holding portion of the mouthpiece <b>302</b>, as described above.

In one embodiment, the removable cap <b>902</b> may be configured to cover or fit over and protect the mouthpiece <b>306</b> and/or neck portion <b>304</b> of the apparatus <b>900</b>. In various embodiments, the removable cap <b>902</b> may be substantially transparent or semi-transparent and configured to allow a person to view the mouthpiece within.

In one embodiment, the apparatus <b>900</b> may also include a plastic wrap <b>904</b>. In various embodiments, the plastic wrap <b>904</b> may be configured to cover or substantially seal the cap <b>902</b>, and in turn the mouthpiece <b>306</b> and/or neck portion <b>304</b>. In another embodiment, in which the apparatus <b>900</b> does not include a cap <b>902</b>, the plastic wrap <b>904</b> may be configured to directly cover or substantially seal the mouthpiece <b>306</b> and/or neck portion <b>304</b>. In some embodiments, the plastic wrap <b>904</b> may be configured to indicate tampering or prior use of the apparatus <b>900</b>. In one embodiment, the plastic wrap <b>904</b> may include a pull-tab <b>905</b> configured to facilitate the unwrapping and removal of the plastic wrap <b>904</b> from the apparatus <b>900</b>. In various embodiments, the wrap <b>904</b> may include substances or materials other than plastic (e.g., biodegradable material, etc.) and it is understood that the disclosed subject matter is not limited to the plastic illustrative example.

In one embodiment, the removable cap <b>902</b> may include a plug <b>906</b> or other tamper-seal mechanism configured to block the channel or tubular hole <b>310</b>, such that substantially no edible material may be discharged into the mouthpiece <b>302</b>. In various embodiments, the plug <b>906</b> may be semi-permanently sealed with the mouthpiece <b>306</b>. In such an embodiment, the plug <b>306</b> may be configured to generally indicate tampering with the apparatus <b>900</b> and more specifically, in one embodiment, whether or not the cap <b>902</b> has been removed since manufacture.

In one embodiment, the plug <b>906</b> may be semi-permanently coupled with the mouthpiece <b>306</b> via a seal or other breakable coupling mechanism. In various embodiments, the plug <b>606</b> may be configured such that the removal of the cap <b>902</b> may break the seal coupling the plug <b>606</b> with the mouthpiece <b>306</b>. In some embodiments, the plug may be coupled with the cap <b>902</b> such that removal of the cap <b>902</b> may remove the plug <b>606</b> from the channel or tubular hole <b>310</b> and allow the discharge or flow of the semi-liquid edible material from the container to the mouthpiece <b>306</b>. In such an embodiment, the cap <b>602</b> may be substantially transparent or semi-transparent to facilitate the determination by a person or otherwise of whether or not the seal is broken.

In one embodiment, the apparatus <b>900</b> or the removable cap <b>902</b> may include a leash <b>908</b>. In such an embodiment, the removable cap <b>902</b> may be coupled, via the leash <b>908</b>, with the neck portion <b>304</b> or the fitment <b>302</b>. In one embodiment, the leach may be coupled with the fitment <b>302</b> at an anchor point <b>310</b>. In various embodiments, the leash <b>908</b> may be configured to keep the removable cap <b>902</b> attached with the apparatus <b>900</b> after or when the removable cap <b>902</b> has been removed from the mouthpiece <b>306</b>. In some embodiments, this may prevent or substantially reduce the chance of the removable cap <b>902</b> becoming a choking hazard, especially for small children or infants for example.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref> is a side-facing diagram of an example embodiment of an apparatus <b>1000</b> in accordance with the disclosed subject matter. In one embodiment, the apparatus <b>1000</b> may include a fitment <b>302</b>, a neck portion <b>304</b>, and a mouthpiece <b>306</b>. In one embodiment, the mouthpiece <b>306</b> may include a safety indicator or tamper-proofing portion <b>1002</b> (shown in a broken state). In various embodiments, the tamper-proofing portion <b>1002</b> may include a plurality of tabs or posts, as illustrated by <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 10</figref>; although, it is understood that the above is merely one illustrative example to which the disclosed subject matter is not limited.

In one embodiment, tamper-proofing portion <b>1002</b> may be configured to indicate whether or not the mouthpiece <b>302</b> has been placed in an open position, as described above (e.g., apparatus <b>600</b> in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref><i>b</i>), since the apparatus <b>1000</b> has been manufactured. In various embodiments, the tamper-proofing portion <b>1002</b> may be configured to be broken when the mouthpiece is first (after manufacture) placed in the open position.

In one illustrative embodiment, the tamper-proofing portion <b>1002</b> may include a plurality of breakable posts coupling a movable portion <b>1010</b> of the mouthpiece <b>306</b> with a non-movable portion <b>1012</b>. In various embodiments, the non-movable portion <b>1012</b> may be included as part of the mouthpiece <b>306</b> or, in one embodiment, the neck portion <b>304</b>. In one embodiment, when the mouthpiece <b>306</b> is first moved to the open position, via illustrated direction of movement <b>1004</b>, the plurality of tabs in the tamper-proofing portion <b>1002</b> may attempt to move with the moveable portion <b>1010</b> of the mouthpiece <b>306</b>. However, in one embodiment, the bottom half of the tabs may be prevented from moving due to being coupled with the non-movable portion <b>1012</b>. In various embodiments, the non-moveable portion <b>1012</b> may be incapable of substantial movement due to blocking tab <b>1006</b>. In such an embodiment, as more force is applied to the mouthpiece <b>306</b> along direction <b>1004</b>, the plurality of posts of the tamper-proofing portion <b>1002</b> may be configured to break and allow the movable portion <b>1010</b> to freely rotate. In various embodiments, the tamper-proofing portion <b>1002</b> may be configured to be substantially non-repairable. In such an embodiment, the tamper-proofing portion <b>1002</b> may provide an indication of whether or not the mouthpiece <b>306</b> was ever opened (after manufacture). It is understood that the above is merely one illustrative example to which the disclosed subject matter is not limited.

In another embodiment, a predetermined amount or dose of material in the container <b>104</b> can be provided for consumption. The administration of a predetermined dose of material can be accomplished by using a container (e.g., a pouch) having a specific predetermined size that is designed to hold a predetermined amount, or dose, of material. Various containers <b>104</b> having a variety of different sizes to accommodate different predetermined amounts of food/puree/liquid/medicine can be used with the system <b>100</b>. The container would be designed and specified for a one-time use application, so that the user would receive the predetermined amount of material contained in the container <b>104</b> during the single use. For example, if a person who had gastric bypass surgery were to gradually resume eating, a container holding a predetermined amount of material (e.g., one, two, or three ounces of pureed food) could be used with the system <b>100</b>, so that the person could consume a specific known quantity of food without having to “measure” on their own food. The predetermined amount of material could range from micrograms (e.g., an amount of medicine mixed with a predetermined amount of fluid or solid material in the container) up to several ounces, or even pounds of material.

A measured dose also can be provided by administering a measured quantity of material from the container <b>104</b> to the spoon of the mouthpiece. For example, as shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 24</figref>, the spoon may include indicia showing a measured quantity of liquid, semi-liquid, or solid material in the spoon. Thus, a user may squeeze the container to administer a known quantity of material into the spoon, as determined by one of the indicia in the spoon.

In another embodiment the mouthpiece of the feeding apparatus can be sealed to a pouch or screwed onto a container to form a single feeding device, as shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 11</figref>. As shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 12 and 13</figref>, the system <b>100</b> can include spout or neck portion (shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>) and a mouthpiece portion (shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>). In <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 12</figref>, the spout can cylindrical with a threaded portion <b>1221</b> at its uppermost portion. There may also be additional projections <b>1222</b> and <b>1223</b> from the middle to lower portion of the cylinder to facilitate handling and sealing by the filling and processing machinery. As shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref>, the mouthpiece portion can incorporate a trapezoid shaped cone <b>1331</b>, a mouthguard <b>1332</b> with special contours <b>1333</b>, and a skirt <b>1334</b>. The portion of the mouthpiece that is inserted into the mouth of the consumer can be the trapezoid shaped cone <b>1331</b>. The trapezoid shaped cone element of the mouthpiece can include, at the top and narrow end, circular openings <b>1335</b>. There may be multiple openings as shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 13</figref> or a single oval opening <b>1336</b> that is adequately sized to allow sufficient flow of food through the opening.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 14</figref> shows a slightly angular top view of the mouthpiece. Extending from the trapezoid shaped cone, the base can expands out to create the mouthguard <b>1441</b>, which includes comfortable contours <b>1442</b> and <b>1443</b> to allow the trapezoid shaped cone to be inserted into the mouth and the lips of the consumer to rest comfortably against the contours of the mouthguard. Additionally, the expanded base and contours can act as a guard to prevent the trapezoid shaped cone of the mouthpiece from being inserted too deeply into the mouth.

As shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 15</figref>, beyond the mouthguard, the base continues and hangs beyond the contours to create a skirt <b>1444</b>, which allows the lower portion of the spout to be hidden from view when the spout and mouthpiece are securely twisted and fully engaged. On the inside of the mouthpiece, threading grooves <b>1551</b> and <b>1552</b> can be incorporated at the narrow portion where the spout engages the mouthpiece and on the underside of the skirt, respectively, so as to allow the feeding apparatus to be attached to the spout or food containers that have similar size openings and screw cap actions. As shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 16</figref>, the feeding apparatus can be created when the mouthpiece is securely screwed onto the spout. The feeding apparatus then can be attached to a pouch using airtight and watertight seams or screwed onto a container with similar size opening and screwing action.

When viewed in its entirety, as shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 17</figref>, the feeding apparatus attached to the pouch or container is a free standing product that may be manipulated with one hand. For example, to feed an infant, the system of apparatus and the container can be elevated to the mouth of the consumer, such that the feeding apparatus is inserted into the mouth of the consumer, at which point pressure can be applied to the pouch or food container. Then food can flow from the pouch or food container and through the feeding device into the consumer's mouth. Thus, the need for a separate food container and utensil can be eliminated, and the mess associated with traditional feeding can be minimized. Advantageously, the time necessary to feed the infant, toddler, or other individual who requires assistance is reduced and the feeding process is made convenient by allowing the caretaker to feed almost anywhere.

<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 18-23</figref> show additional views of implementations of the mouthpiece. For example, in the implementation shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 18-23</figref> one or more rings can be included at the base of the mouthpiece to prevent choking if the mouthpiece is swallowed by a consumer.

While certain features of the described implementations have been illustrated as described herein, many modifications, substitutions, changes and equivalents will now occur to those skilled in the art. For example, a thin, flexible membrane can be included between the neck portion and the mouthpiece portion or between the container and the neck portion. The membrane may all material to pass from the container out through the mouthpiece when a certain amount of force is applied to the walls of the container, but otherwise the membrane may prevent or inhibit the passage of material from the container out through the mouthpiece to avoid spills of the material. It is, therefore, to be understood that the appended claims are intended to cover all such modifications and changes as fall within the scope of the embodiments.